Psalms 89:41

All that pass by the way spoil him: he is a reproach to his neighbours.

All that pass by {H5674}{H8802)} the way {H1870} spoil {H8155}{H8804)} him: he is a reproach {H2781} to his neighbours {H7934}.

All who pass by plunder him; he is an object of scorn to his neighbors.

All who pass by plunder him; he has become a reproach to his neighbors.

All that pass by the way rob him: He is become a reproach to his neighbors.

Commentary

Context

Psalms 89 is a powerful psalm of both praise and lament. It begins by extolling God's faithfulness and His eternal covenant with King David, promising an enduring dynasty and an everlasting kingdom. However, the tone shifts dramatically from verse 38 onwards, expressing deep distress and questioning God's apparent abandonment of the Davidic king and his people. Verse 41 describes the dire consequences of this perceived rejection: the king and nation are left vulnerable to plunder and public shame, a stark contrast to the glorious promises previously celebrated. This likely reflects the historical period of the Babylonian exile or a time of significant national defeat, where the Davidic monarchy's power had been severely diminished.

Key Themes

  • Loss of Protection and Authority: The phrase "All that pass by the way spoil him" vividly depicts a state of extreme vulnerability. It suggests that the king, who should be a protector, is himself unprotected and easily plundered by even casual passersby, signifying a complete collapse of authority and security.
  • Public Humiliation and Shame: Being "a reproach to his neighbours" highlights the profound public disgrace and loss of honor. The Davidic king, once revered and formidable, is now an object of scorn and mockery among surrounding nations, a stark reversal of fortune and a deep blow to national pride.
  • Questioning Divine Faithfulness: Underlying this verse and the entire lament section of Psalm 89 is the profound theological crisis of how God's promises to David could seemingly be unfulfilled in the face of such national calamity. It encapsulates the human struggle to reconcile God's unchanging character with challenging circumstances.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "spoil" (בָּזַז - bazaz) means to plunder, pillage, or take as spoil, often in the context of war or conquest. It emphasizes the forceful and opportunistic taking of possessions from the vulnerable. The term "reproach" (חֶרְפָּה - ḥerpâ) denotes disgrace, shame, or contempt. It is a strong word indicating public humiliation and dishonor, often associated with a loss of status or integrity, reflecting the deep emotional and social pain experienced by the king and his people.

Related Scriptures

This verse stands in stark contrast to earlier promises of divine protection and exaltation found in the Davidic covenant, such as in Psalms 89:28, which speaks of God's mercy being kept forever. The theme of being plundered and a reproach is echoed in laments from the period of exile, such as in Lamentations 2:15, where those who pass by mock Jerusalem. For the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, which transcends earthly kings and points to an eternal reign, see Luke 1:32-33 regarding Jesus Christ.

Practical Application

Psalms 89:41 reminds us that even those who are divinely favored can experience periods of extreme vulnerability, shame, and loss. It validates the human experience of feeling abandoned or disgraced when circumstances seem to contradict God's promises. While the psalmist laments and questions, the very act of bringing these concerns to God demonstrates a foundational trust that God is capable of hearing and responding. It encourages believers to voice their doubts and fears, even as they hold onto the ultimate hope in God's faithfulness, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse also highlights that earthly power and status are fleeting. True strength and lasting honor come from God alone, and our ultimate hope rests not in temporary human institutions but in God's eternal plan and His unchanging nature.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 79:4 (3 votes)

    We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.

  • Jeremiah 42:18 (2 votes)

    For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As mine anger and my fury hath been poured forth upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem; so shall my fury be poured forth upon you, when ye shall enter into Egypt: and ye shall be an execration, and an astonishment, and a curse, and a reproach; and ye shall see this place no more.

  • Psalms 74:10 (2 votes)

    O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever?

  • Jeremiah 44:8 (2 votes)

    In that ye provoke me unto wrath with the works of your hands, burning incense unto other gods in the land of Egypt, whither ye be gone to dwell, that ye might cut yourselves off, and that ye might be a curse and a reproach among all the nations of the earth?

  • Ezekiel 5:14 (2 votes)

    Moreover I will make thee waste, and a reproach among the nations that [are] round about thee, in the sight of all that pass by.

  • Ezekiel 5:15 (2 votes)

    So it shall be a reproach and a taunt, an instruction and an astonishment unto the nations that [are] round about thee, when I shall execute judgments in thee in anger and in fury and in furious rebukes. I the LORD have spoken [it].

  • Lamentations 5:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach.